Brian Ransom has produced sculptural, tuned musical instruments that use ceramics as their principle resonator for the past 25 years. According to Ransom, all of his instruments — which include horns, flutes, saxophones, bells, strings, percussion and electronics — share a haunting timbre of sound that is generated by the clay body he designed. Most are multimedia and vapor-fired.
The artist/musician/Eckerd College professor shows off his latest "sounding sculptures" in Harmonic Resonances, one of three exhibits opening this Friday at Florida Craftsmen Gallery.
Also on display is Spun Metal: Monica Naugle, which features the artist's signature woven metal and fiber works, and Paper Jewels: Holly Anne Mitchell, which includes hand-crafted jewelry created from recycled comics, coupons, stocks, crossword puzzles and even losing lottery tickets.
Brian Ransom and members of his Ceramic Ensemble perform at the trio of opening receptions, which take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Fri., Sept. 15. In addition, winners of Florida Craftsmen's Just Perfect Small Craft Competition will be announced.
Harmonic Resonances, Spun Metal and Paper Jewels, Sept. 15-Oct. 31, Florida Craftsmen Gallery, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, free and open to the public, 727-821-7391, www.floridacraftsmen.net.
This article appears in Sep 13-19, 2006.